Within the same auction hall, in Booth 45, two individuals sat in quiet anticipation.
The booth was spacious and luxurious, furnished with plush velvet chairs, a small table laden with exotic refreshments, and a clear view of the stage below. Although guarded by retainers—silent, watchful figures stationed at the entrance and corners—the atmosphere within was one of relaxed confidence.
At the center of the booth sat two individuals: one middle-aged man and one handsome youth.
The middle-aged man was tall and lean, with sharp features and silver-streaked hair that spoke of years of experience. His eyes were pale blue—the color of a winter sky—and they held a calm, calculating intelligence that missed nothing.
The youth was handsome in a sharp, angular way, with high cheekbones, a strong jawline, and eyes that gleamed with ambition. His hair was dark, streaked with silver, and his posture was relaxed—almost arrogant—as he sipped a glass of tasty blue lemonade.
